Murfreesboro _ Tennessee's best high school football players for 2012 were recognized at the Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Awards luncheon hosted today by the Tennessee Titans.

More than 500 people, including the honorees, their families, coaches, school administrators and members of the media from all parts of the state, attended the 2012 luncheon at the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center to support the finalists.

Titans Owner K.S. "Bud" Adams, Jr. said today's celebration recognizes more that the ability of these young men to play the great game of football.

"The young men were here because of their outstanding character and academic achievements, traits which will pave their way through life, long after their football days has passed," Adams said. "I congratulate all of the Titans Mr. Football Award finalists for the outstanding manner in which they represent their school and community!"

High school head coaches and members of the media nominated the finalists and a committee of statewide sports writers selected winners based on performance in the 2012 regular season. Academics and character were also taken into consideration.

The awards were presented to the top back and lineman in each of the five classifications of the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association. For the eighth time in the history of the award, the top kickers in the state were recognized. There were three finalists in this category, regardless of their school's classification.

The Tennessee Titans became sponsors of the Mr. Football Awards in 2007.